A squad consists of a number of soldiers fighting together, occupying one square. The exact number is left intentionally vague, but the general rule is to model increasing numbers of soldiers using additional squads, rather than increasing the “density” per squad.

A hero is an individual fighting alone or with other heroes. Any number of heroes may occupy the same square. Unlike squads, a hero keeps track of his health using injury points. In many other respects, a hero functions similarly to a squad, as far as mechanics go.

Phases of a combat round

Special actions – Each hero can activate a special ability during the special actions phase.

Decided immediately

Typically no movement involved

Includes things like healing, buffing, debuffing, etc.

See “special actions” below for a list

Movement – Each unit moves.

Units move in order from highest initiative bonus to lowest (no dice are rolled).

If two initiatives are tied, whoever rolls higher on a d20 goes first that round.

Attacks – All units attack simultaneously.

Everyone rolls their attacks simultaneously.

After everyone has rolled, damage is assigned in reverse initiative order (i.e., lowest initiative must assign damage first).